During the press conference before the Dutch Grand Prix, Lando Norris caused a stir with an unexpected and sharp statement. The British McLaren driver suggested the FIA might be biased in favor of Max Verstappen, especially because the race was held in his home country. Norris’s words immediately sparked controversy in the room, as well as among fellow drivers and journalists.
According to those present, Norris spoke with a strikingly structured tone: “I wonder if we’ll all get an equal chance this weekend. I wouldn’t be surprised if the FIA turns a blind eye here and there to let Max shine in his own country.” His statement was followed by murmurs and surprised looks, strange insinuations being made openly and very rarely in Formula 1.
Max Verstappen, who was sitting next to Norris at the table, almost immediately. Without visibly becoming angry, he looked at the Brit and said just one sentence: “In a car, nationality doesn’t matter, only speed.” His short but powerful response was met with an icy silence, causing Norris to stumble over his words and then decide not to pursue the topic further.
Verstappen’s response was seen by many as a masterful way to defuse the situation. Instead of a heated argument about defensiveness, the three-time world champion opted for a calm but decisive message. Journalists described the atmosphere in the room as “tense but respectful,” though Norris’s statement lingered.
At McLaren, the team quickly tried to downplay the matter. A team spokesperson later stated that Norris “hadn’t intended to attack anyone personally,” but simply emphasized that the FIA must always be vigilant in ensuring fairness. However, behind the scenes, there was speculation that Norris regretted his words and may have said more than he actually intended.
The FIA itself issued a brief response stating that “there is no bias whatsoever” and that all drivers are equally affected, strongly arguing that the Grand Prix’s location is a legitimate procedure: “Our officials are neutral and independent. We take these allegations very seriously, but we will not be distracted from our duty: to provide a fair and safe race weekend affordably.”
A heated debate erupted among fans on social media. Interestingly, Norris had a point and that vigilance is always essential at a top driver’s home race. Otherwise, they accused him of unsportsmanlike behavior and praised Verstappen for his mature response.
The consequences on track remain to be seen. The incident certainly adds an extra layer of tension to an already emotionally charged race weekend. For Verstappen, the matter seems settled for now, but it’s clear that Norris’s statement struck a chord – and the world’s eyes will now be even more focused on Zandvoort.
